Pinecliffe
About Pinecliffe, CO
Mining was the lifeblood that brought Pinecliffe into being in the 1870s. Later the mountain community, nestled in upper Coal Creek Canyon, was better known as a resort town, where vacationers fished, picnicked and panned for gold in the mid-1900s. Today, Pinecliffe, elevation 7,920 feet, is a haven for secluded mountain living that offers the convenience of having a city nearby. The town, well known to area train enthusiasts as one of the most scenic and photographed stops along the mountain railroad, is just southeast of Nederland and straddles South Boulder Creek.
Pinecliffe has no formal government of its own, so it is governed by the Boulder County commissioners. A post office built in 1909 remains the town's only governmental office.
Emily Griffith, founder of the Opportunity School in Denver, drew attention to the town when she was shot to death at the age of 67 along with her sister Florence in their Pinecliffe cabin. Emily Griffith's vision was to provide education regardless of age, race or income. The case of the death of the teacher and humanitarian was never solved.
Most residences are in Boulder County, but some people go to Gilpin County for voter and vehicle registration. Many Pinecliffe residents commute to jobs in Boulder or other nearby cities. Children are bused to Boulder County schools. The High Country Volunteer Fire Department serves the community.
